Summary of "It Could Happen Here Weekly 155"

Host: Robert Evans
Guest: Chloe Cooper
Additional Contributors: James Stout, Danny Drehove, Ed Zitron

Introduction

The episode begins with brief promotional segments for other podcasts, which are subsequently skipped to focus on the main content. Robert Evans introduces the episode as a compilation of the week's discussions, emphasizing the looming uncertainty surrounding the upcoming 2024 election and its potential ramifications.

The Threat of Constitutional Sheriffs

[05:52] Robert Evans:
Robert sets the stage by highlighting the significant threat posed by the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association (CSPOA). He explains that these sheriffs, backed by organizations like the Oath Keepers and the Oath Keepers, believe they possess ultimate authority over law enforcement, often disregarding state and federal laws.

[06:07] Chloe Cooper:
Chloe Cooper, an investigative reporter and PRA Research Director, delves deeper into the origins and operations of the CSPOA. She explains that the movement gained momentum around 2012, influenced by ideologies similar to those of the John Birch Society. Key points include:

• Deputizing Militias: Sheriffs aligned with CSPOA have started deputizing militias and individuals, granting them limited law enforcement powers. This includes deputizing local militia groups and congregations at churches.

• Trump's Influence: During Trump's administration, there was a concerted effort to court these sheriffs, integrating them as part of his "ground troops." This relationship strengthened the movement's reach and influence.

• Collaboration with "True the Vote": CSPOA has partnered with groups like True the Vote to investigate claims of election fraud and to intimidate voters, especially regarding undocumented individuals.

Notable Quote:
Chloe Cooper discusses the alarming potential of the CSPOA's ambitions:
"These are people who have the force of law behind them. They're armed, they're organized, and they're quite dangerous." [07:55]

Implications for the 2024 Election

[08:46] Robert Evans:
Robert expresses his concerns about the Constitutional Sheriffs movement as it approaches the 2024 election. He emphasizes that regardless of the election outcome, the influence and actions of these sheriffs pose a significant threat to democratic processes.

[10:50] Chloe Cooper:
Chloe highlights the strategic alliances forming within the movement, including collaborations with neo-Confederate groups, further entrenching their far-right ideologies into local governments. She warns of the potential for these sheriffs to confront other law enforcement officials and elected leaders, leading to increased polarization and potential violence.

Notable Quote:
Chloe Cooper underscores the ideological bent of the movement:
"We are seeing a major fissure right now... these guys have shooters that are literally shooters." [11:47]

Historical Context: Parallels to Past Revolutions

[35:31] James Stout & Danny Drehove:
The discussion shifts to historical events, with James Stout and Danny Drehove drawing parallels between the current political climate and past revolutions. They explore the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, the French Revolution, and the role of figures like Martin Luther in shaping societal upheavals.

Key Points:

• Gunpowder Plot Analysis:
  They dissect the motives and consequences of the Gunpowder Plot, emphasizing its role in anti-Catholic sentiment and its transformation into modern symbols like Guy Fawkes masks.

• V for Vendetta Influence:
  James explains how the graphic novel "V for Vendetta" and its subsequent film adaptation have reshaped the symbolism of rebellion, detaching it from historical figures like Guy Fawkes and associating it with contemporary anarchist movements.

Notable Quote:
Danny Drehove reflects on the historical portrayal of rebels:
"It's another new wife. Right? Like, was it like... impossible." [47:45]

Post-Election Scenario and Predictions

[141:12] Robert Evans:
Returning to the present, Robert discusses the post-election landscape, expressing uncertainty about the election outcome but leaning towards a favorable result for Harris based on current indicators.

[145:03] Ed Zitron:
Ed emphasizes the importance of support systems and community resilience in the face of potential political instability. He advocates for mutual aid and grassroots organizing as essential tools to combat the threats posed by far-right movements.

[149:21] Danny Drehove:
Danny offers practical advice on fostering community support, emphasizing the significance of mutual aid networks and community organization to protect vulnerable populations from systemic repression.

Notable Quote:
Danny highlights the power of community action:
"If you can do it, you can do it. And having done it has made me less... We can build from there." [122:20]

Strategies for Mitigation and Community Building

[131:05] Robert Evans:
Robert outlines the potential actions that could be taken to counteract the influence of Constitutional Sheriffs and far-right movements. He stresses the importance of legal action, community organization, and proactive measures to protect marginalized communities.

[138:00] James Stout:
James advocates for open-door organizing and inclusive community-building efforts, urging listeners to engage with their local communities and form resilient networks that can withstand political upheavals.

Notable Quote:
James Stout emphasizes proactive community engagement:
"We have to be able to... create an organization. And if you do that, many of those organizations... will have open-door policies." [137:41]

Conclusion: The Path Forward

As the episode draws to a close, the hosts reiterate the urgency of addressing the threats posed by far-right law enforcement movements and the importance of building strong, supportive communities. They encourage listeners to engage in mutual aid, support organizations defending migrants' rights, and remain vigilant against attempts to undermine democratic institutions.

Final Remarks:

• Robert Evans: Calls for proactive measures and community resilience.
• Danny Drehove: Encourages grassroots organizing and mutual aid.
• Ed Zitron: Highlights the necessity of collective action and support networks.

Notable Quote:
Danny encapsulates the episode's call to action:
"The solution is not despair. The solution is community." [132:18]

Key Takeaways

• Constitutional Sheriffs Movement: A growing threat with significant influence over local law enforcement, empowered to override state and federal laws.

• Election Implications: Regardless of the 2024 election outcome, the actions of these sheriffs could destabilize democratic institutions and incite violence.

• Historical Parallels: Understanding past revolutions and movements provides insight into current threats and the symbolic transformation of rebellion in modern culture.

• Community Resilience: Building strong, supportive networks and engaging in mutual aid are crucial strategies to mitigate the impact of far-right movements.

• Proactive Measures: Legal actions, grassroots organizing, and community support are essential in defending democratic processes and protecting vulnerable populations.

Relevant Quotes with Timestamps:

• Chloe Cooper:
  "These are people who have the force of law behind them. They're armed, they're organized, and they're quite dangerous." [07:55]

• Chloe Cooper:
  "We are seeing a major fissure right now... these guys have shooters that are literally shooters." [11:47]

• James Stout:
  "We have to be able to... create an organization. And if you do that, many of those organizations... will have open-door policies." [137:41]

• Danny Drehove:
  "The solution is not despair. The solution is community." [132:18]

Recommendations for Listeners

• Stay Informed: Understand the structures and influences of groups like the CSPOA.

• Engage Locally: Participate in or support mutual aid networks and community organizations.

• Advocate for Legal Protections: Support legal actions that defend migrants' rights and prevent the overreach of far-right law enforcement.

• Build Resilience: Foster strong, supportive relationships within your community to withstand potential political and social upheavals.

This episode serves as a critical examination of the rising threats to American democracy posed by certain far-right movements within law enforcement. It underscores the necessity for community-driven resistance and proactive measures to safeguard democratic institutions and protect vulnerable populations.